January 17, 2005
For Immediate Release

Fifth Annual Port/Government Interface to Focus on Outreach

The Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA) will host the fifth annual Port/Government Interface.

The Interface provides an opportunity for senior port and government officials to discuss issues of critical importance to the port community. Key players in the port community will gather at the Delta Ottawa Hotel on February 21 and 22, 2005 to get an update on seaport security, port infrastructure, port competitiveness, environment and other relevant issues. This year will also feature a ‘Ports in Canada’ reception on Parliament to impress upon key elected officials the importance of the port community in Canada. This initiative is in keeping with ACPA's renewed commitment to take a prominent leadership role in the development of a stronger national transportation policy and a more efficient national ports system.

The ACPA's Chair, Captain Gordon Houston, President and CEO of the Vancouver Port Authority says, "Canadian port competitiveness has never been more important than it is now with the projected growth in both domestic and international trade expected to more than double over the next 10 years." He went on to note we must renew our focus on improving transportation infrastructure capacity and the things we must do now to meet future demand. He said, “All in the logistical chain have a role to play, it is not just a port issue, but a question of ensuring proper capacity landside related to the movement of goods on rail and road. If the connectivity between modes is not more effective and efficient Canada will be less competitive and this will have a negative impact on the prosperity of Canadians working in the transportation sector.”

Security is the number one issue around the world and Canada is no exception. Canada’s ports are now among the most secure in the world and this year’s Interface will provide an opportunity for all to get an update on current initiatives. The Interface will also explore issues related to the Canada Marine Act Review and how that impacts the future for ports. Environmental stewardship is always a priority for Canada’s ports and Transport Canada will provide insight into current work related to a more sustainable environment for the future.

Captain Houston said the ACPA continues to develop its role as the voice of Canada's port community. This Interface is part of the Association’s continuing work to provide the port community an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue with their partners. Houston noted that we are now at a critical stage in the development of our transportation networks and the way in which these issues are handled in the months ahead will determine to a large extent the way we do business for years to come.

For more information please contact:
Gary LeRoux
Executive Director
Association of Canadian Port Authorities

Phone: (613) 232-2036

The Association of Canadian Port Authorities was founded in 1958 and groups together ports and harbours and related marine interests into one, national association. The ACPA is the pre-eminent Association for the advocacy and advancement of the Canadian Port Industry. ACPA members contribute greatly to the local, regional and national economy of Canada with over $100 billion worth of goods handled annually.

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